Is a Two-Speed Heat Pump Better Than a Single-Pump System?

Most heat pumps and air conditioners use single-speed compressors. These compressors run at full capacity, no matter the actual needs of the house. This wastes energy. Some models of heat pumps can be equipped with a two-speed compressor, which runs at a speed that is closest to the appropriate capacity needed to meet heating or cooling needs at that particular moment. This saves energy and reduces compressor wear.

With this low capacity operation, the heat exchanger coils operate at a temperature closer to ambient air temperature. This reduces the differential between the outside and inside temperatures, making the unit operate more efficiently. This is particularly advantageous in the winter months since it keeps the outdoor coil from frosting and, in turn, using less energy to defrost. You can also zone a two-speed system using automatic dampers to allow the heat pump to keep different areas of your home at different temperatures.